Kenmore Dryer: not spinning and heating

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore dryer is running but the drum isn't spinning, it can be frustrating. While the heating function works and clothes get warm, the lack of tumbling may indicate issues like a broken drive belt or faulty components. Understanding the potential causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore dryers often use standard belt and roller assemblies similar to other brands; no unique cause beyond typical mechanics identified.

Possible Causes

Broken or worn drive belt

How to Identify: Motor may run with humming sound but drum will not turn when spun by hand—drum spins freely if belt is broken/slipped.

Part: Drive belt

Faulty idler pulley or worn drum rollers/bearings

How to Identify: Drum may struggle to turn or make noise; manual rotation reveals resistance or rough spots. (家电配件专家

Part: Idler pulley / drum rollers / bearings

Faulty motor (drive motor)

How to Identify: Motor humming without driving belt; overheating or repeated cycling.

Part: Drive motor

DIY Solutions

Inspect and replace the drive belt

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver set, socket wrench set, replacement belt
  1. Unplug dryer and disconnect from power.
  2. Remove access panel (usually rear or front bottom).
  3. Locate the drive belt around the drum and motor.
  4. Check for breakage, wear, or belt slack.
  5. If broken, remove old belt and loop new belt correctly over motor pulley and drum grooves.
  6. Reassemble panels and test operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dryer is unplugged before opening panels.

Inspect drum rollers and idler pulley

Advanced 60-90 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, socket set, multimeter optional
  1. Unplug the dryer.
  2. Remove the dryer cabinet to access drum support components.
  3. Rotate drum manually to check for resistance or wobble.
  4. Replace worn rollers, idler pulley, or bearings as needed.
  5. Reassemble and test.
⚠️ Safety First: Heavy internal parts; disassembly risks if unfamiliar.

Professional Repairs

Drive motor replacement

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300+

When to Call a Professional

Unusual noises, burning smell, or smoke during attempted repair
Failed DIY attempts with correct belt and rollers installed
Symptoms point to motor failure or electrical issues

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter and vent system: Airflow restriction that can overheat components
    Frequency: After every use / annually deep clean

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer not spinning and heating?
Common causes include a broken drive belt, faulty idler pulley, or a malfunctioning motor.
How do I fix Kenmore Dryer not spinning and heating myself?
Inspect and replace the drive belt or check drum rollers and idler pulley for wear.
How much does it cost to fix not spinning and heating?
Professional repairs for a drive motor replacement can cost between $100 and $300+.
When should I call a technician for not spinning and heating?
Call a technician if DIY solutions are beyond your skill level or if the motor needs replacement.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty door switch preventing the dryer from spinning
  • Broken drive belt that stops the drum from turning
  • Malfunctioning motor that fails to engage the drum

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the door switch if faulty. To do this, unplug the dryer, remove the front panel, and test the switch with a multimeter. If it doesn't show continuity, replace it.

  2. Inspect the drive belt for wear or breakage. To replace it, unplug the dryer, remove the front panel, and the drum. Replace the old belt with a new one and reassemble the dryer.

  3. Test the motor for functionality. If the motor is not engaging, it may need to be replaced. This involves unplugging the dryer, removing the front panel, and disconnecting the motor from the wiring harness.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Dryer Heating while not spinning

Community Discussions

Dryer heating while not spinning

Replace the heating element or check for a stuck switch on the motor assembly.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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